WORKERS SEE AI'S PROMISE BUT STRUGGLE WITH ITS SPEED, UK STUDY SHOWS

Artificial intelligence is sweeping through workplaces, bringing a mix of excitement and unease, according to a new study from Henley Business School released last week. Surveying 4,640 full-time UK workers, the research found that 56% are thrilled about Al's potential to streamline tasks and spark creativity, yet 61% feel swamped by its lightning-fast rollout.

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For employees, business leaders, and tech policymakers, these findings reveal a workforce caught between enthusiasm for Al's benefits and the stress of adapting to its relentless pace in a $2 trillion global AI market.

The report, titled "The AI High: Feeling Optimistic but Overwhelmed," sheds light on how AI is reshaping jobs, from crunching data to crafting content, while exposing critical gaps in training and confidence.

With 57% of workers expecting to use AI daily by 2030, the urgency to prepare is clear.

ORKERS ARE OPTIMISTIC ABOUT AI

A strong sense of possibility fuels workers' excitement, with 56% seeing AI as a tool to make their jobs easier and more impactful. Many view it as a time-saver, automating repetitive chores like scheduling meetings or sorting spreadsheets, letting them dive into bigger-picture tasks. For example, marketers in the survey praised AI platforms for drafting campaign ideas 30% faster, while logistics workers used predictive tools to optimize delivery routes. Nearly half, 48%, believe AI will sharpen their decision-making, especially in data-heavy fields like finance, where algorithms spot trends humans might miss.

The optimism isn't just wishful thinking― 42% of workers reported measurable productivity gains, citing tools like Microsoft 365 Copilot, which can whip up reports in minutes instead of hours.

The study also found 64% are less worried about AI wiping out their jobs than expected, viewing it as a partner rather than a rival. This confidence ties to the UK's $1.1 billion AI investment in 2024, which has spurred new roles like AI trainers, signaling a growing market where workers see room to thrive.